Many of the more impressive entries, such as a massive catamaran that had to be lowered into the water with a pickup truck and trailer, sank like anchors. (See the video)

"Sometimes less is more," said Jeff Riffey of Lincoln, one of six sailors who landed in the drink when the "Floating Otto" catamaran came apart at its cardboard seams. His crew won the S.S. Minnow award for most dramatic shipwreck.

The race started as a fundraiser to buy toys for the needy during Christmas season in St. Clair County, said Nancy Crow, coordinator of the race and a staff member for the Pell City Parks and Recreation Department. With entry fees and help from sponsors, the boat race and other events last year helped raised $18,000 to buy toys for children, she said.